Moorhead — A regional rail-crossing needs study produced with HDR and local stakeholders was presented to the Moorhead City Council on Nov. 10, outlining safety and access improvements at 15 crossings in the metro area.

HDR representatives said the study grew from a BNSF inquiry nearly three years ago and included engineers from HDR’s national offices and a study review committee composed of local jurisdictions and regional stakeholders. "BNSF agreed to provide the local match for this study," one presenter said, noting that local jurisdictions were relieved of covering the typical 20% local match for federal funding.

Presenters described preferred alternatives identified by a multiple-account evaluation that weighted project benefits and emergency-service access. Recommended improvements at several crossings included adding turn lanes and shoulders for bicyclists and pedestrians, raising medians and installing new gates and flashers to meet quiet-zone standards, and constructing grade separations (overpasses) at the busiest locations to eliminate at-grade crossings and prepare for future growth.

The consultants said the study included public engagement — pop-up events and four regional meetings — and that the council was receiving the report during the final week of public comment. HDR asked the community to review the online study materials and submit recordable comments during the engagement period.

Council members asked about cost differences shown on the study graphics between options labeled with different dollar signs; HDR said it would follow up with specific cost-range information after the meeting. No formal action or funding vote was taken; the presentation was informational and part of ongoing regional planning.